VRT500 helicopter passes first stage of aerodynamic tests

The first stage of the aerodynamic tests of the light-weight multi-purpose VRT500 helicopter has been completed at the facilities of the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI). The aircraft is a new development by VR-Technologies Design Bureau of Russian Helicopters Holding belonging to Rostec State Corporation.

The new helicopter's 1:4 scale model was tested in the institute in-house free-spinning wind tunnel. During the tests, the drag of the model body and its most critical components – fuselage, nacelle, rotor mast and tail group was evaluated.

VRT500 is a light-weight single-engine helicopter featuring a coaxial configuration and a take-off weight of 1,600 kg. The vehicle was put on public display for the first time at the HeliRussia-2018 International Exhibition of helicopter manufacturers. This is the first light-weight helicopter built by the holding with a take-off weight of less than 2 tons.

The VRT500 helicopter has the largest cargo-and-passenger cabin in its class with a total capacity of up to 5 people. It is equipped with an interactive control system.

The machine is capable of developing a speed of up to 250 km/h, covering distances of up to 860 km, and carrying up to 730 kg of payload. The several VRT500modifications include those designed for passengers, multi-purpose, cargo, training, VIP and emergency situations. Besides, VRT500 will become the first world's emergency helicopter in the class of helicopters with a take-off weight of less than two tons capable of loading and unloading standard-dimensioned cots through the rear cockpit doors to simplify the process and save time.